Intel and Microsoft may cooperate from time to time to introduce game-changing technology together. However, both companies also view each other as competitors and this rivalry is apparently about to heat up should Intel go ahead with what seems to be a competitor for Microsoft’s coming Surface Pro 5.

Back in November 2016, the California-based tech giant filed a patent application for an electronic device with detachable curved display. The patent has now apparently been awarded to Intel. The sound of detachable display alone is enough to tell us that Intel is going after the convertibles market that Microsoft’s Surface and Surface Pro lines have brought to shine.

Judging by the patent’s images, this 2-in-1 hybrid laptop would feature a curved detachable display and a similarly curvaceous keyboard that complements the form factor of the screen. Looking at the thickness of the keyboard, it seems like it could have a separate battery in it, and could possibly feature separate storage and more processing hardware.

A curved screen on a laptop won’t be a first since Acer already has that covered with its gaming laptop, Predator 21X. However, Intel could be working on the first hybrid laptop with a curved display.

Finally, Microsoft has been working on the unconfirmed high-end Windows Phone, Surface Phone. The company has not officially used this product name yet, there is a constant flow of rumors and some hints that Microsoft plans to release Surface Phone at some point this year.

Kostas is a former sports journalist and an amateur gamer. Combining his love for technology with his writing experience, he enjoys covering news about Microsoft. Being an artistic “soul”, he is also writing poems and short stories.